Foreign ministers from the G20 top economies were set to convene in South Africa on Thursday and Friday amidst tensions within the group and the notable absence of the leading U.S. diplomat due to a dispute with the hosts. The G20 countries, accounting for about 85% of global GDP and three-quarters of trade, often face challenges in reaching consensus, but recent geopolitical divisions stemming from Russia's 2022 Ukraine invasion have exacerbated existing rifts.
The discord has further intensified since the inauguration of South Africa's President a month ago, who swiftly implemented changes in Washington's trade and foreign policies. As the current holder of the G20 presidency, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed pressing issues like rising inequality, insufficient action on climate change, and a financial system favoring investment banks over struggling sovereign debtors.
Despite South Africa's hopes for a productive meeting, the United States has opted out, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticizing the agreed agenda as "very bad" and not aligning with U.S. interests in "diversity, equity, and inclusion." Disagreements between the U.S. and African hosts over land ownership and an International Court of Justice case against U.S. ally Israel have contributed to the rift.
The gathering occurs as the U.S. under President Trump shifts its stance on Ukraine and Russia, sidelining NATO allies and seeking a new approach to peace negotiations. China, seizing the opportunity presented by the U.S. absence, aims to bolster its influence, particularly in light of fractures within the transatlantic alliance.
China's foreign ministry emphasized the necessity of promoting "healthy and stable" in international relations, highlighting the country's aspirations to play a more significant role in shaping global politics.